Solar Panel FAQs India 2026: Cost, Subsidy, Installation, Savings & Maintenance

Rooftop solar is one of the most practical ways for Indian homes and businesses to take control of rising electricity bills. Before signing a quotation, though, most people have the same set of questions: what it costs, how much subsidy is available, what size to choose, whether it works in the monsoon, and how much care it needs over the years. Our SolarConnect India team has put the most common questions in one place, with straight answers and links to deeper guides.

Quick answer

For most Indian homes, a grid-connected (on-grid) rooftop system sized to the monthly electricity units is the best-value choice. The PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana central subsidy gives Rs 30,000 for 1 kW, Rs 60,000 for 2 kW and a maximum of Rs 78,000 for 3 kW and above. SolarConnect India pricing stays within a ceiling of about Rs 70,000 per kW; for an exact figure for your roof and location, consult us. Businesses and industries do not get the residential subsidy but can benefit from lower daytime tariffs, tax depreciation and pan-India project delivery.

Cost and pricing questions

What does a rooftop solar system cost per kW in India in 2026?

The price depends on panel technology (for example DCR or non-DCR, mono PERC, TOPCon or bifacial), inverter brand, structure height, cable runs, roof type and state DISCOM charges. SolarConnect India keeps residential pricing within a ceiling of about Rs 70,000 per kW, and many configurations come in below that. Because every roof is different, the honest answer for your exact system is: consult us with your electricity bill and roof details.

What is the approximate budget for a 3 kW home system?

At the ceiling of about Rs 70,000 per kW, a 3 kW system would be up to roughly Rs 2.1 lakh before subsidy. With the PM Surya Ghar subsidy of Rs 78,000 credited after installation, the effective cost to the family falls further. The final quote depends on site conditions, so treat this only as an upper planning figure. Our 3 kW solar system guide explains units, roof space and subsidy in detail.

Why do two solar quotations for the same size differ so much?

Quotations often differ in panel wattage and brand, inverter make, structure quality (galvanised steel thickness and height), earthing and lightning protection, wiring, net-metering paperwork and after-sales service. A lower price sometimes means lighter structures or missing items. Use our 12-point quotation checklist to compare line by line.

Subsidy questions

How much PM Surya Ghar subsidy can a household claim?

The central subsidy under PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana for residential rooftop solar is:

Some states offer an additional top-up. Scheme rules can change, so always confirm on the official portal. Full details are on our PM Surya Ghar page.

Who is eligible, and how is the subsidy paid?

The scheme is for residential electricity consumers with their own roof and a valid connection; DCR (domestically manufactured cell) panels are required. You register on pmsuryaghar.gov.in, choose a registered vendor, get the system installed and inspected, and the subsidy is credited to your bank account afterwards. SolarConnect India processes customers' subsidy applications through our empanelled partner, Pro Power Energies.

Do shops, offices or factories get the PM Surya Ghar subsidy?

No. PM Surya Ghar is for residential consumers (and common facilities of housing societies under specific rules). Commercial and industrial users instead benefit from savings on higher commercial tariffs and from accelerated depreciation as per applicable tax rules; check with your tax advisor.

Sizing and savings questions

What size of solar system matches my monthly bill?

A simple rule of thumb: in most of India, 1 kW of shadow-free rooftop solar produces roughly 4 units a day on average, or about 120 units a month, depending on location, tilt and season. Use the table below as a starting point:

For a personalised estimate, try the SolarConnect solar calculator.

How much can I save on electricity every month?

Savings equal the units your system replaces multiplied by your tariff per unit. A home using 300 units a month on a tariff of Rs 7-8 per unit could offset a large part of that bill with a correctly sized 2-3 kW system. Fixed charges and DISCOM rules still apply, so the bill rarely becomes exactly zero. Your actual savings depend on your tariff slab, usage timing and net-metering policy.

How long does it take to recover the investment?

The payback period depends on system cost after subsidy, your tariff and how much of the generation you use. Higher tariffs and full use of solar units shorten payback. We give a payback estimate along with every quotation instead of a one-size-fits-all number.

System type questions

Should I choose on-grid, hybrid or off-grid solar?

See our detailed comparison: on-grid vs off-grid vs hybrid.

Do I need a battery with rooftop solar?

Not for savings. With net metering, the grid acts like a virtual store for your extra daytime units. A battery is worth considering only if you face regular power cuts or need backup for essential loads. A well-designed on-grid system can often be upgraded to hybrid later by adding a compatible inverter and battery.

How does net metering work?

A bi-directional meter records units you export to the grid and units you import. At billing, the DISCOM adjusts exports against imports as per state regulations. Application is made through your DISCOM, usually alongside the subsidy process. Read the complete net metering guide.

Weather and performance questions

Will my panels still generate in the monsoon?

Yes, but less. Heavy cloud cover reduces output, while diffuse light still produces some power. Rain also washes dust off the panels. Over a full year, sunny months make up for the monsoon dip, which is why sizing is done on annual average generation rather than a single rainy week.

What happens to output in winter fog and smog?

Shorter days, fog and smog in north India can lower winter output, although cooler panel temperatures slightly improve efficiency. Keeping panels clean and free of new shade helps. Our winter solar guide covers practical tips.

Installation questions

What are the steps from enquiry to a working system?

1. Share your electricity bill and roof details for sizing.
2. Site survey and design (shadow check, structure, cable route).
3. Quotation with full price and expected subsidy shown separately.
4. Portal registration and DISCOM net-metering application.
5. Installation, testing and DISCOM inspection.
6. Net meter installation and commissioning, then subsidy credit.

Timelines vary by state and DISCOM workload.

Can solar be installed on a tin shed or a rented building?

Tin and metal sheet roofs can carry solar with suitable mounting clamps, after checking roof strength. On rented property, written consent from the owner is needed, and for the residential subsidy the electricity connection details must match the scheme requirements.

Which documents are usually needed to apply?

Keep a recent electricity bill, the consumer number, identity proof, bank account details for the subsidy credit, and proof of ownership or consent for the roof. Requirements differ slightly between DISCOMs, so our team checks the list for your state before you register.

Are DCR panels necessary, or can I use any panel?

For the PM Surya Ghar residential subsidy, DCR panels with cells made in India are required. Non-DCR panels can still be used for systems that do not claim this subsidy, such as many commercial projects, where they may lower upfront cost. The right choice depends on whether you plan to claim the subsidy.

Can I add more panels later if my usage grows?

Often yes, if the inverter has spare capacity or can be replaced, the roof has space and your sanctioned load and net-metering approval allow it. Planning for future loads such as an EV charger or an extra AC at the design stage makes expansion easier and cheaper.

Is rooftop solar safe during lightning and storms?

A properly installed system includes earthing, surge protection devices and, where needed, a lightning arrester, along with structures rated for local wind conditions. Ask for these items to be listed clearly in the quotation and checked at commissioning.

Maintenance and lifespan questions

How much maintenance does a solar system need?

Very little: regular cleaning with plain water and a soft cloth or mop, a visual check of wiring and structure, and keeping an eye on inverter generation data. Avoid harsh chemicals and high-pressure jets. Learn safe methods in our cleaning and maintenance guide.

How many years will solar panels last?

Quality panels typically carry a performance warranty of around 25 years, with gradual, expected output reduction over time. Inverters usually need attention or replacement earlier than panels. Always check the product warranty, performance warranty and inverter warranty in writing before you buy.

Commercial and pan-India questions

Does SolarConnect handle large commercial and industrial projects?

Yes. Our team supports commercial and industrial rooftop and ground-mounted solar for factories, warehouses, offices, schools and hospitals, with pan-India delivery through our EPC and dealer network. Options include capex (own the system) and, where suitable, RESCO/PPA models. See our commercial solar projects page for details.

Can I partner with SolarConnect as a dealer or installer?

Yes, we work with dealers, installers and channel partners across India. Visit the partner page to apply; for terms, consult us.

More answers

Still unsure about a claim you heard? Our solar myths vs facts page separates common misconceptions from reality, and the SolarConnect solar FAQ page collects more answers from across our blog.

Talk to the SolarConnect India team

Share your latest electricity bill and roof photos, and our team will suggest the right size, system type and subsidy route for you. Call or WhatsApp +91 92823 67700 or call 033 3183 5203, or use the solar calculator to start.